BLUE EYES

I looked into his eyes
the windows of his soul
years had passed him by
somehow taking their toll.

His face was very drawn
but the eyes told the story
of what he had to do
to defend his country's glory.

A wan complexion magnified
the eyes so very blue
like crystal stones that were
set untouched to shine anew.

Body so frail
he needed help to walk
Sit here in this chair
You don't have to talk.

A smile creased his lips
I thought my heart would break
All his pain and suffering
a result for freedom's sake.

What words could I say
I wanted to comfort him
All I saw were fragile bones
that once were fighting limbs.

Service connected injuries
the effects of Agent Orange
So unfair that men must live
with their bodies so estranged.

He got up from his seat
Shuffled down the hall
I'll look for him tomorrow
"Blue eyes" is the name I'll call.

©Copyright November 2004 by Janet Rattay

This poem about one of the patients at the VA Hospital where I do volunteer work